13 Conclusion

The Manning River, its tributaries and the estuary give life to our community connecting the mountains to the sea.

The estuary is important for oyster-growing, fishing, tourism and recreation. Up-river the Manning and its tributaries provide water for drinking, stock and irrigation. Our community values the beautiful scenery, the cool places to swim and relax, and the wildlife that can be glimpsed hiding in the deep pools. All these uses depend on a healthy ecosystem and clean water.

Some of the issues we need to manage are lack of stewardship, climate change, loss of coastal wetlands and riparian vegetation, floodplain drainage, Acid Sulfate Soils, and agricultural impacts. By working with our community and partner organisations to implement the Manning River ECMP, MidCoast Council will lead a 10-year action program to address these issues.

Together we will manage the catchment holistically and respond to a changing climate - safeguarding environmental, social, cultural and economic values.